Christmas, while supposedly one of the most joyous times of year, can also be one of the most stressful. Sure, there’s tinsel and Mariah Carey and the freedom to watch Love Actually multiple times without judgement, but if you happen to be hosting the main event your blood pressure is probably going through the roof.
Those cousins you haven’t seen in years? They’ll be there, complete with gluten-free and vegan dietary requirements. Then there’s a tree to put up, a table to decorate, and, most importantly, a menu that will keep everyone happy to plan. Not to mention shopping for the last-minute Secret Santa you’ve been dragged into at work.
If the whole thing is filling you with dread instead of merriment, why not ditch tradition (and a mountain of dishes) and treat yourself to a nice civilised meal out on the town.
Here’s what's open on Christmas Day in Perth so you don't have to cook.
Be warned—bookings fill up fast, so you better act quick if you don’t want to miss out. We’ll update this list with any new additions as they're announced.
Crown Perth
Burswood | Price varies
You're absolutely spoilt for choice at Crown this year. Lock in a decadent French feast at Bistro Guillaume, devour all the dumplings at Silks, slurp pasta at Modo Mio or have all you could ever want for Christmas at Epicurean's indulgent Christmas buffet. Just do yourself a favour and add on a stay while you're at it.
Wildflower
Perth | From $285pp
Perth’s best spot for a degustation, Wildflower is hosting Christmas Day lunch and you can bet the menu will blow your mum’s roast turkey out of the water. Taking place on the beautiful rooftop of the Como Treasury building, festive folks can enjoy a five-course lunch for $285 per person, with optional West Australian wine pairing.
Post
Perth | From $175pp ($60 for kids 11 and under)
There's few people we trust more than Post's Executive Chef Kim Brennan to deliver a feast worthy of Christmas Day's extravagance. Set within the State Buildings, the CBD osteria also happens to be one of the most beautiful venues in Perth, so it's one we'll happily get dolled up for. Book your table now and start eyeing off the lush Italian menu.
Petition
Perth | From $169 ($60 for kids 11 and under)
If our obsession with the State Buildings isn't clear yet, let us add another solid option to your Christmas dining list. Petition is open for lunch and dinner on Christmas Day, and let me tell you, the modern Australian eats always deliver. Book one of the two sittings available for lunch or dinner and you'll be looking forward to a decadent three-course festive meal including a shared entrée, choice of main and choice of dessert.
Hearth At The Ritz-Carlton
Perth | From $215pp
Every year the Ritz-Carlton transforms their waterfront fine dining restaurant, Hearth, into an indulgent festive feasting hall that's well worth a look in. And while we're still waiting for this year's menu to drop, we can guarantee it'll be oh so luxe. Get in before they book out.
QT Perth
Perth CBD | From $195pp
Prepare to dial up the Chrissy indulgence at QT Perth. Hosted at Santini, the hotel’s Christmas Day feast is inspired by a traditional Italian Christmas, so we can guarantee nobody will be leaving hungry. Work through dishes like wood-roasted turkey and butter poached lobster through to a classic Chrissy pudding with marsala custard and amarena cherries. Lunch and dinner bookings are available here.
Sweetwater
East Fremantle | From $180pp ($50 for kids 12 and under)
If seafood, rooftop vibes and free-flowing drinks are more your vibe this Christmas, snap up a spot at Sweetwater. The East Freo restaurant is putting on the ultimate seafood banquet this year, with two lunchtime sitting on offer—book here.
Long Chim
Perth | From $169pp
The basement of Long Chim will be exploding with flavour as they take a festive approach to their delicious Thai street food menu and throw open their doors for a fiery Christmas lunch. For $169 per person you can taste your way through favourites from their Maa Long Chim banquet menu—just think: crispy prawn cakes, lobster in Thai basil coconut cream and banana roti puffs for dessert. Throw on the drinks and you’re all set for a very merry time.
The Raffles
Applecross | $150pp ($50 for kids 12 and under)
With it's beautiful riverside views, The Raffles lends itself perfectly to a festive feast with your loved ones. Round up your fam and settle in for a lunch without the fuss, with a three course set menu and two hours of endless drinks guaranteed to fire up the Christmas spirit.
More Pubs Open For Christmas Day
If a casual pub feed is what you're chasing, there's a few more top spots that'll hit the spot.
While we're at it, here are the best places to throw a Christmas party in Perth.
Image credit: Elle Borgward (Post), Hearth, Sweetwater